How long is Jacob’s Ladder in Tasmania?
Tasmania, oceania
17.7 km
1,452 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure time! Let's talk Ben Lomond Mountain in Tassie, a proper bucket-list destination near Launceston. Picture this: a wild, unpaved road corkscrewing up 1,452 meters (that's 4,763 feet!). We're talking Ben Lomond Road, baby, starting from Upper Blessington and clocking in at 17.7 km (almost 11 miles) of pure driving exhilaration.
The highlight? Jacob’s Ladder! This legendary stretch features six super-tight hairpin turns carved into dramatic dolerite cliffs. Trust me, the views from the top are worth every white-knuckle moment. It’s steep though – hit 13% gradients in places. Take your time – this is a road to savor, not speed through.
Speaking of speed, stick to 30 km/h! This road demands respect. Give way to uphill traffic, and if you're heading down, drop a gear and let that engine braking do its thing. The average grade is 6.15%, and the whole climb from Upper Blessington gains you a whopping 1,089 meters. Even bus drivers need special licenses for Jacob’s Ladder. Watch out for those rogue rocks and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Allow around 45 minutes for the drive, not counting stops for photos (and you'll want to stop!). And pro tip: if you're hitting this up in winter (which is ski season, FYI), pack your chains. Seriously, check the conditions and carry them between June and September – they may close the road with no warning. Ben Lomond National Park is jaw-dropping, offering views for days. The park's massive plateau and sheer cliffs are unforgettable.
Road Details
- Country
- Tasmania
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 17.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,452 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in oceania
extremeCan you drive to the Remarkables?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
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hardWhy is Mount Olympus famous?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Wanna tackle one of New Zealand's craziest access roads? Head to the South Island and find Mount Olympus, home to a super cool, locals-only ski area nicknamed the "Playground of the Gods." The road? It's an unpaved beast called Mount Olympus Access Road. Seriously, this ain't no Sunday drive. Starting from Harper Road, it's about 13.6 km (8.45 miles) of steep climbing – we're talking an average gradient of 7.73% as you gain 1,052 meters in elevation! The first bit to the bottom hut *might* be doable in a 2WD with chains, but trust me, after that, you'll want a high-clearance 4WD and those chains *definitely* on board. The road narrows, gets super steep, and becomes mostly one-lane. Seriously, there's even a sign that says "Chains and courage are required"! If your ride (or your nerves) can't handle it, chill at the bottom hut and hitch a ride with someone who knows the drill. Always check the morning snow report and heed the signs. This road is not for the faint of heart!
hardHow long is the Barrier Highway?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, road trip fans, buckle up for the Barrier Highway! This epic stretch connects New South Wales and South Australia across 1,014 km (630 mi) of pure Aussie outback. The name comes from the dramatic Barrier Ranges, and believe me, the scenery doesn't disappoint. This A32 route is fully paved, so no need for a 4x4. However, it's also home to Road Trains – seriously massive trucks – so keep an eye out. Now, about the weather: think scorching summers and surprisingly chilly winters, so pack accordingly! Heads-up: phone reception is patchy, so download those playlists beforehand. You'll also be cruising through some seriously remote areas, so plan your fuel stops and bring extra supplies. Trust me, running out of gas in the middle of nowhere isn't the kind of adventure you want. One more thing: dusk and dawn are prime time for kangaroos and emus to be on the move, so it's best to avoid driving at night. Trust me, you don't want to hit one!
hard1. Motorhome Logistics and Route Planning
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you're picking up your campervan in Auckland, itching to explore the North Island of New Zealand. Freedom awaits, but a little planning goes a long way! The roads here are a wild mix – think busy city highways that quickly turn into twisty, narrow backroads that can challenge even experienced drivers (especially in a larger rig). First things first: Kiwis drive on the left! Get used to it, especially at those roundabouts. You'll definitely want a GPS – not just for directions, but also to keep an eye out for toll roads and ferry links. Speaking of ferries, factor those into your schedule, as they're often essential for reaching some of the coolest spots. Some of the rural roads around Auckland are *tight*. Think narrow bridges, super steep climbs, and the potential for flash flooding if the weather turns nasty. Make sure your campervan is up to the task and that you're comfortable maneuvering it in tricky situations. Also, keep an eye out for cyclists and pedestrians; you'll be sharing the road in many areas. Now, about that weather: Auckland's known for its "four seasons in one day" vibe. Rain can roll in super quickly, leading to flooded roads and winds that'll really buffet a high-sided campervan. Check the forecast religiously before heading out, and be prepared to adjust your plans. Finally, remember you're in charge of your own adventure! Many of these roads are remote, so fill your water tank and make sure you have snacks and emergency supplies on board. No one wants to get stranded!